Johnston Iowa
Construction & Remodeling
Your One Call Solution for Home Building and Remodeling in Johnston, Iowa
Johnston, Iowa General Contractor
About Us
Established in 2020, Busy Builders has served more than 1,285 Central Iowa homeowners. We bring decades of combined trade experience to projects in Johnston and throughout Polk County. As Iowa-registered contractors, we understand the building codes, permit processes, and quality expectations of this professional community. From updating 1970s-era homes to building custom new construction, we deliver quality work with transparent communication.
Our Mission
Provide the most transparent and honest experience possible for any construction project. We provide detailed written estimates, explain permit requirements upfront, and maintain clear communication throughout your project.
Our Vision
To serve all of Central Iowa with dedicated construction services, building lasting relationships through quality workmanship and integrity.
Full-Service Construction And Remodeling in Johnston
New home construction in Johnston, IA. This rapidly growing Polk County city has approximately 24,064 residents (2020 census), a dramatic increase from 8,649 in 2000. Incorporated September 19, 1969, Johnston’s origins trace to 1846 when Ezekiel Hunt established a sawmill near Beaver Creek. Named for John F. Johnston, the first station agent for the Des Moines & Central Iowa Railway (1907), the city hosts Camp Dodge military reservation (4,500+ acres since 1908) and Corteva Agriscience headquarters (formerly Pioneer Hi-Bred, employing 2,000+). We build custom homes meeting the 2015 International Codes with local amendments.
Complete home remodeling in Johnston, IA. While the city has experienced explosive growth, housing stock varies significantly. The 1970s-2000s building boom produced homes now requiring updates to HVAC systems, roofing, and finishes. Newer construction in master-planned communities may need personalization or builder-grade upgrades. Johnston uses the 2015 International Codes for Building, Residential, and Swimming Pool with local amendments, plus State of Iowa Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas codes.
Kitchen remodeling in Johnston, IA transforms homes across this professional community. With median earnings in finance and insurance exceeding $97,000 annually, many homeowners invest in premium kitchen upgrades. The Building Department at 6221 Merle Hay Road handles permits. Contact (515) 727-7778 or email buildingdepartment@cityofjohnston.com. Applications require drawings, site plans, and complete documentation. Typical review takes up to seven working days.
Basement remodeling in Johnston, IA expands living space in a community with premium home values. Polk County falls within EPA Radon Zone 1. We recommend radon testing before any basement work, with mitigation installed during construction when needed. Johnston’s family-oriented developments often feature larger lots accommodating expanded living spaces. Building permits cover basement finishing work; contact Building Official Adam Ostert at (515) 727-7767 for code questions.
Bathroom remodeling in Johnston, IA addresses infrastructure needs across the city’s diverse housing stock. Homes from the 1970s-1990s may have outdated plumbing and electrical systems requiring updates. Modern bathroom remodels require proper ventilation per current codes. The Building Department provides permits and inspections for all bathroom renovation work. We coordinate requirements for bathroom projects throughout Johnston.
Home additions in Johnston, IA require permits through the Building Department at 6221 Merle Hay Road, P.O. Box 410, Johnston, IA 50131. Contact (515) 727-7778 or email buildingdepartment@cityofjohnston.com. Applications must include all required drawings, site plans, and forms. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Permits are reviewed within seven working days. The Community Development Department oversees zoning compliance. We coordinate all permits and inspections for additions.
Basement finishing in Johnston, IA converts unused square footage into valuable living space. Per IRC requirements, basement bedrooms must have egress windows with minimum 5.7 square feet opening. Johnston’s affluent demographics (median home values among the highest in metro Des Moines) support quality finished basements with full bathrooms, home theaters, and exercise rooms. Building permits are required for all basement finishing work; we ensure all codes are met.
Deck building in Johnston, IA enhances outdoor living in this family-friendly community. The city features numerous parks, trails along Beaver Creek, and access to Saylorville Lake on the eastern border. The Johnston Town Center includes a skating rink, splash pad, and gathering spaces. Deck building requires permits through the Building Department. Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles require proper footing depth (42 inches minimum) and appropriate materials for our climate.
Building in Johnston and the North Metro
Johnston has about 24,064 residents and runs a full building department. Call 515-727-7767 to confirm requirements before you set a schedule. That is because Plan review on a city this size is a real step with a real queue.
Johnston grew in distinct waves, and knowing which wave your house belongs to predicts the job. Homes near Merle Hay and the older core are mid-century and usually need structural work to open a kitchen. The Beaver Creek and northern developments are newer, where the work shifts to basements, sunrooms, and fourth bedrooms.
Saylorville and the Beaver Creek corridor put drainage in play on a lot of Johnston properties. Where a lot sits relative to that corridor decides whether a walkout is straightforward or a drainage project first.
Every footing goes at least 42 inches down to sit under the frost line. On sloped Johnston lots we check bearing before pricing a foundation.
We build across the north metro. Homeowners in Grimes, Urbandale, Polk City, and Clive call us for the same work.
Planning a Johnston addition? Call: 844-435-9800 for a written estimate.
Permit rules and fees change. Confirm current requirements with the City of Johnston before you commit to a budget or a timeline.
Our Building Partners.
- Achievement
Your Dream, Our Passion.
Since 2020, more than 1,285 Central Iowa homeowners have trusted us with their projects, and it shows.
Quality Construction at the Right Price.
Additions
Based on Average Pricing in Johnston.
- Additional Story
- Tornado Shelter
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Sunroom
- Bathroom
- Garage
- ADU
Kitchen Remodeling
Based on Average Pricing in Johnston.
- Countertops
- Appliances
- Cabinetry
- Windows
- Islands
- Lights
Home Building
Based on Average Pricing in Johnston.
- Dream Build
- Multi-Family
- Tiny Home
- Spec Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Home Construction & Remodeling in Johnston, IA
How do building permits work in Johnston?
The Johnston Building Department handles permits at 6221 Merle Hay Road, P.O. Box 410, Johnston, IA 50131.
Contact (515) 727-7778 or email buildingdepartment@cityofjohnston.com.
Applications require complete drawings, site plans, and all required forms; incomplete applications won’t be accepted.
Review typically takes seven working days.
Johnston uses 2015 International Codes with local amendments, plus State of Iowa electrical, plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas codes.
Which school district serves Johnston?
Johnston is served by the Johnston Community School District, home of the Dragons (7,500+ students, PreK-12).
The highly-rated district includes an early childhood center, five elementary schools, two middle schools, and Johnston High School (grades 10-12; freshmen attend Johnston Middle School).
The district is one of Iowa’s largest and fourth-largest employers in Johnston.
Schools are known for strong academics, with 77% proficiency in math and 79% in reading.
What major employers are located in Johnston?
Corteva Agriscience (formerly Pioneer Hi-Bred, founded by Henry A. Wallace, who became U.S. Vice President) employs over 2,000 people and is headquartered in Johnston.
Iowa Public Television studios are located here.
in 1908 on 4,500+ acres, serves as the Camp Dodge, established 1908 on 4,500+ acres, serves as Iowa National Guard headquarters.
The city has 671 businesses employing approximately 15,205 people, with an annual payroll exceeding $1.3 billion.
How far is Johnston from downtown Des Moines?
Johnston is directly north of Des Moines, accessible via I-35/80 and Merle Hay Road (about 10-15 minutes to downtown).
Grimes is 4.5 miles west, Urbandale borders to the south, and Saylorville Lake is on the eastern border.
The new Johnston Town Center houses City Hall and community gathering spaces.
Busy Builders serves Johnston from our West Des Moines base, typically within 15-20 minutes.
What recreational amenities does Johnston offer?
Johnston features extensive parks and trails along Beaver Creek, access to Saylorville Lake and Dam (completed 1977), and the Johnston Town Center with a skating rink and community spaces.
Camp Dodge includes public facilities.
The city is bordered on the east by the Des Moines River, with access to Saylorville Reservoir.
The city offers a family-friendly atmosphere with community events throughout the year.
What makes Johnston unique for homeowners?
Johnston combines suburban family living with major employer access and top-rated schools.
The population grew 39.3% from 2010 to 2020, with an estimated 24,598 residents as of 2024.
Notable landmarks include a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed private residence (Paul J. and Ida Trier House), Camp Dodge military history, and the National Weather Service Des Moines Forecast Office.
The city offers abundant job opportunities in insurance, finance, agriculture, technology, and biotechnology sectors.
- Our Articles
